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HYDROZONING
Hydrozoning in landscapes
Why is it important to hydrozone in landscapes and gardens? Hydrozoning saves water and money. It improves the landscape design, mimics natural plant communities, minimises the impact on the surrounding natural environment, and simplifies maintenance The concept of hydrozones (hydrostations) is based on the theory that the correct plants should be planted in shade, semi shade or sun depending on plant requirements, as defined by the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS), developed by the University of California. The Landscape Irrigation Model South Africa (LIMSA), developed by Dr Leslie Hoy, is consistent with the WUCOLS model and focuses on individual assessment of each hydrozone within a landscape. Hydrozoning, in this context, is defined as: • • • • •
A grouping or bed of plants, Plants with the same water (hydrozone) requirements, Plants are watered with the same correct amount of water, Plants are positioned correctly in the landscape, Each hydrozone has it’s own control valve, and their own specific irrigation system.
The intention of this model is to allow for a more accurate water use on any landscape site to be determined. This is particularly important for sites that will rely on any form of supplementary irrigation over and above rainfall of the area where the landscape is located. This will also apply to sites that require additional watering beyond the initial establishment period.
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SIMPLE. INTERLOCKING. SECURE MAKING PLAYGROUNDS SAFER
PLAYSaFE
ED's NOTE Welcome to the February Issue of Pro Landscaper + Architect Magazine This is an issue that tackles (pun intended) the theme of sports & play. From stadiums and golf courses, to pitches and play spaces, this issue aims to highlight this very prominent element of design and build for all professionals. Whether dealing with design elements or maintenance of these active spaces, we’ve got something for everyone between the pages of our February issue.
@Pro Landscaper Africa
Our portfolio section highlights play in both a residential and commercial setting and looks to indoor play for innovation in design. We also feature industry expert advice on designing for play, and key considerations in this process. Join us as we take you onto the sites of industry suppliers and interview some of the movers and shakers reinventing sports spaces around South Africa.
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From Shapa Soweto, to Shenzhen Skypark in China - It's Game On!
Editorial Editor-in-Chief & Director Chanel Besson Design Zoey&I - Sarah Gregg-Macdonald
Advertising Key Account Manager Justine Coleman Media Sales Executive Basheerah De Villiers Commissioning Editor Amy Aries
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Cover Image: Shapa Soweto (as seen in our 5th Annual Coffee Table Edition) Image by: Dave Southwood
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09 – Innovative Design for Play
by Mark Saint Põl, Director at Square One Landscape Architects
14 – The Importance of Play
by Timothy Snyders, Director at Truform Landscape Architects, a division of BPAS Architects
18 – The Future of Sports
Po r
CONTENTS lio tfo
38 – Game. Set. Match. by W Design Studio
43 – The Dream Room by Hubo Studio
48 – Hygiene Made Fun with Geberit Bambini
Lighting is Now
by Franco Botha, Maritz Electrical
25 – Steyn City Stunner
A perspective on the build of Steyn City School’s Sports Field by Golf Data
50 – The Wonderdal Wonderland by TeamArchitects and Formula_D interactive
56 – Shenzhen Skypark (China) by Crossboundaries
28 – Meet the Supplier:
Meet Evergreen Turf’s Fanus Cloete
32 – Back to the Futura:
An interview with Gustav Greffrath, Director at contemporary creative firm, Futura
64 – Meet the Supplier: Mfangano Solutions
66 – Experience High Performance Cordless Freedom with the STIHL PRO Range
Innovative Design for Play Pro Landscaper + Architect catches up with Square One Landscape Architects’ Mark Saint Põl, to look at key considerations when it comes to designing innovative, unique and engaging play spaces.
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SAFETY VS FUN
As a landscape architecture practice operating internationally, Square One are constantly challenged to design according to best practice standards for playground design. This means embedding the more universal considerations of safety, risk, and adventure within place specific factors such as environment, social and financial contexts. We work to the Australian Standards for Playgrounds that adopted the European Standards and modified them for Australian conditions, many of which are applicable to the South African context. At the heart of the Australian Standards for play design, designers are encouraged to provide environments that activate imagination, provide excitement and a sense of adventure in safe surroundings. “Play provision aims to offer children the chance to encounter acceptable risks as part of a stimulating, challenging and controlled learning environment.” AS 4685.1:2021 (Australian Standard for Playground equipment and surfacing).
EVERYONE CAN PLAY
Designing accessible and inclusive play spaces is fast becoming the accepted minimum standard. Everyone Can Play is a best practice resource produced by the state government of New South Wales, “for creating world-class play spaces, designed to include everyone in the community, regardless of age, ability or cultural background”. While this too is produced for the Australian context, it is a comprehensive reference document to guide the process of play space design. In increasingly urbanised settings, play spaces have the potential to provide vital amenity value that is often overlooked during the design or community engagement process – particularly when it comes to inclusivity. While many larger projects may have accessibility consultants as part of their professional team, it is essential for all landscape architects and designers to have a firm understanding of the components and considerations required to add real value to the communities that they serve.
MAINTENANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL One of the casualties of consumeristic and trend is maintenance. It is a maintenance has become a
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our westernised, driven societies sad reality that dirty word and a
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grudge purchase for many. In some eastern cultures, maintenance is considered as an artform and an investment in a longer-term vision. It is incredibly important that budgets for maintenance following construction are negotiated and secured up front. In the west, landscape maintenance should be rebranded as cultivation and nurturing of one’s community contribution and capital investment. In Australia, playground certifiers have emerged as much-needed specialists that evaluate the safety and quality control of play spaces and structures at all stages. It is a specialisation worth developing in South Africa too as their inclusion within projects affords the designer greater freedom and peace of mind to focus on the experiential, amenity and contextual informants of their designs.
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The future of play space design and what developers are asking for in these spaces
INCLUSIVE PLAY AND MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES
Play spaces and parks are often at the centre of our communities, and they should cater for all ages, individuals and families, people of all ranges of abilities and their carers and for people of all backgrounds. Greater demand for quality open space in increasingly dense urban settings means that there is limited space for traditional playgrounds. Play spaces needn’t be confined to dedicated spaces but can be incorporated into multifunctional outdoor environments that accommodate elements of play throughout. These environments should be welcoming,
comfortable, and interesting – offering a range of opportunities for people to engage with each other in a variety of landscape settings. Multifunctional play spaces are important components of our urban environments and have the potential to function as places for fun, learning, celebrating, relaxing, and exercising for all age groups. In order to accommodate a broader community involvement, adequate provision for amenities should include shade structures, tables and benches and ablutions.
WILD PLAY
Adventure playgrounds developed as a reaction to the sanitised and structured play environments that dominated suburban parks over the last few decades. They are not a new concept but have only recently started to grow in popularity. The primary difference between adventure
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playgrounds and traditional playgrounds is that they favour natural or recycled elements or “loose parts” over manufactured structures. The provision of unprogrammed space and access to moveable elements accommodates imaginative or unstructured play rather than the inflexible play associated with traditional swings, slides, and see-saws. Children are encouraged to create their own games and scenarios by responding to and adapting the site to their agendas. In schools, or where there is available adult supervision, these can often be supplemented with mud kitchens, campfires, food gardens and chicken runs. Wild play environments can facilitate enhanced childhood experiences and maximise childhood development by providing more meaningful connections to nature, encouraging imaginative play, collaboration, and investigation. Generous “un-designed” nature spaces provide for quiet retreat spaces to exist alongside more active play spaces.
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AUGMENTED REALITY AND NATURAL SYSTEMS
While the idea of introducing tech into natural settings may seem antithetical, advances in digital devices guarantees that they will be part of our outdoor environments in some form or other. While we believe in working with and incorporating natural systems into all our projects, we think that there are opportunities to incorporate technology in a meaningful and complementary way. Square One are currently designing a park design and play space with Indigenous Elders in Sydney. We are incorporating references to their local ingenuity and understanding of the provisioning natural systems through the inclusion of ecological stormwater design and reintroduction of indigenous food and medicinal plants. A digital overlay, using QR codes and augmented reality will allow children and adults to explore and interact with the sounds, stories and wildlife associated with the local ecology. Of course, if they
choose to switch off their phones and immerse themselves in nature, they can do that too.
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Types of materials to use and why
For most developers, schools and city councils seeking to incorporate inclusive and adventure play principles, a hybrid play space would be required. Natural materials are becoming increasingly popular and may include play sand or bark mulch soft fall areas. These are not universally accessible, however, so areas of rubber matting may be necessary to provide wheelchair access to play structures, for example. We are increasingly including rope play structures as these can be designed to balance calculated risk taking for children with the benefit of a safety net. They are also versatile in their provision of climbing, balancing and hangout experiences.
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Loose kits of parts are valuable additions in supervised environments. Recycled materials, logs, boulders, sand and water elements allow children to create their own environments and choose their own adventures.
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Exciting spaces we've designed that illustrate clever and innovative design concepts
Bosjes Wine Estate, Phase 2 – The entire landscape is designed for play. We worked with natural systems to provide adventure play opportunities, as well as incorporating forest, water, and air playscapes to get children and adults to engage with the elements. Customdesigned hybrid structures cater for adults as a lookout deck and for children as a climbing structure. A mini building site and water play area allows children to learn more about nature and science. St. Joseph's - At the St. Joseph’s Home care facility for children with life limiting and lifethreatening illnesses, play is an essential part of facilitating healing and recovery. Our design focuses on creating a safe and enticing environment to foster learning and healing through natural play experiences. Bothas Halte School – Working with earthshaping that generates sunken play areas and thus creating an engaging topography for children to run and climb on in a relatively small space. Ecological learning areas, such as vegetable gardens and indigenious green roofs were introduced by incorporating water sensitive urban design principles. Tailored for all ages and capabilities, and chosen to promote physical and cognitive development for individuals as well as social interaction between groups.
Photographer: Fishgate
MARK SAINT PÕL Director at Square One Landscape Architects www.square-one.com.au @square_one_studios
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The Importance
of Play
A perspective by Timothy Snyders, Landscape Architect and Director at Truform Landscape Architects, a division of BPAS Architects.
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W
e have all become familiar with the contemporary playgrounds, hailing predominantly from European countries. They consist of artificial surfaces and materials with bright colours. The former being a result of the need for reduced maintenance, and the latter leaning into the stereotypical idea of playful colours. These playgrounds have become places where adults find comfort; where they hope their child can play and not get hurt. On the other hand, it is suggested that by exposing children to challenges and obstacles, their decision-making abilities further in life will be improved. It is therefore unfortunate that this priority on safety has resulted in playgrounds that do not always provide a stimulating environment to assist children in their cognitive and motor skills development.
play and exposing the children to challenges and danger, allowing them to make their own decisions and forms of play and not prescribe it to them as adults and designers. I would like to explore the notion of using nature as play and not only physically build expensive structures. CONCEPTUALISING "PLAY" “Play” has been distilled into four types, Functional, Symbolic, Sensory and Constructive. These can be further broken down and characteristics assigned to them. These concepts, in conjunction with materials, is what could assist in creating exciting play – not merely bright colours and expensive equipment. Sometimes items do not have to be high tech and over engineered for a child to have fun. We
TIMOTHY SNYDERS Landscape Architect, BPAS Architects @truform_landarch @bpas_architects www.bpas.co.za
Unfortunately, just as landscapes tend to be an afterthought or the first element to be reduced or omitted in development, so are playgrounds. Contemporary play should require its own allocated budget that speaks to the needs of the user and not a generic formula, repeated across landscapes and seen as an afterthought. This neglect and misunderstanding on the importance of play will potentially lead to poor child development. The importance of play to a school can easily be assessed by the quality and size of the playground. While all leading schools focus on sports and arts facilities, resulting in vast spaces and buildings being dedicated to this with play squeezed into the remaining corner. With children adapting and being introduced to technology earlier and earlier, the “classic" playground and outdoor play areas we see need to evolve to stay abreast with technology, aiming to stay more captivating than their technological devices. We as designers will need to provide solutions for this. It has been found that interaction with nature, not just physically but visually as well, can positively contribute to the well-being of children. Since contemporary playgrounds tend to lack vegetation, such as trees or shrubs, which could provide the stimulation and obstacles that can challenge the child and provide the skills development. Therefore, one should consider the possibility of reintroducing natural materials into
seemed to have forgotten about the power of a child’s imagination in play. The emerging school of thought encourages the reintroduction of natural materials and colours into playgrounds and allowing the child to generate their own story of play. The above diagram indicates those types and characteristics of natural play and their contribution to the development of a child. FUNCTIONAL PLAY Physical play activities such as climbing of trees and rocks, tumbling and sliding.
SEASONAL CHANGE The seasonal change that takes place in plants and the landscape, either through growth, flowering, fruit, seeds or even death. This change allows the children to interact with colour, texture and fruit, exposing them to nature they can safely interact with. THICKET/BRANCH RAMIFICATION Exposes children to challenges and problemsolving situations as well as textures and scents. Dense multi-stemmed vegetation allows for
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climbing and exploring creating functional and symbolic play. As well as exposing children to textures in the barks and leaves, fruit, and scents from leaves and bark. SYMBOLIC PLAY Role-playing; social playing such as pirates and knights or playing house. MEADOW Children seek more complex and exciting and challenging play environments. Meadows offer a way of introducing seasonal change diversity and interest on the ground plain instead of using lawn. SENSORY STIMULATION Stimulation of the senses is vital for child development. The use of plants to create explorative play spaces and using their characteristics such as leaf and flower colour, fragrance, textures, fruit, plant defense mechanisms. LIGHT AND DARK Creates complex, dynamic and diverse play areas as well as intrigue. Having voids in the overhead plain creating light pockets or tunnels and viewing thresholds. USE OF COLOUR Use of colour to stimulate and facilitate play and development. This use of colour is brought in through the specific plant selection and material choice.
The Indigo Playgrounds by Ballistic Architecture Machine (BAM), Beijing, China.
CONSTRUCTIVE PLAY Playing with loose material and parts and the building of structures and objects such as houses and castles. TREES Trees allow for sensory stimulation, functional and symbolic play. Trees can be climbed on and creates an overhead plain, either dense and shaded, or sparse offering mottled shade or deciduous allowing light penetration in winter. These elements mean a tree can create its own spaces even when standing alone. TOPOGRAPHY Children respond best to free-flowing multifaceted forms and curves in the landscape. This can be used to stimulate functional and symbolic play, through mounds, concave and convex forms and niches. Clever and innovative design comes when one can instil these aspects of natural play into
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Sculptural Tunnel Hoops by Handspring Design, Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, London.
F E AT U R E
CONSTRUCTIVE PLAY Trees: Abstract timber play structures in dynamic forms. Topography: Creating an undulating, informed play surface. Using these principles and the contemporary interpretation of them, if natural elements are not available, what will cultivate and result in good design. As landscape architects, we must question the norm and determine if the current school of thought is the right one, not only for the development of design but more importantly the development of children and their future well-being.
Stockwell Urban Oasis Children's Nature Garden, London.
La Colline "The Hill" by Appelle Moi Papa, Nantes, France.
modern day structures and possible materials. With the following examples for each element: FUNCTIONAL PLAY Seasonal change: Introducing water and shadows which change through the day of play. Thicket/branch ramification: Netting structures, spiders web, rope tunnel or rope forests. SYMBOLIC PLAY Meadow: Explorative play, digging up/finding hidden elements. Smell: Using smell to stimulate and guide visually impaired children. Allowing children to relate smells to different materials and objects. SENSORY STIMULATION Light and dark: Tunnels and shadows, that children can climb in, out and around.
"It has been found that interaction with nature, not just physically but visually as well, can positively contribute to the wellbeing of children".
Use of colour: Use of earthy and pastel colours, Colours which appear in nature and would not overstimulate children.
Kildebjerg Ry's 'The Pulse Zone' by CEBRA, Denmark.
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Think you know which one is LED?
They both are. This just shows the vast disparity in how different LED sports lighting performs. That’s Musco on your left. Our Total Light Control—TLC for LED® system directs more light onto the field and features patented technology that minimises glare and light spill in ways others simply can’t. This keeps players, fans, neighbours, and the night sky happy. And you won’t pay maintenance costs for a decade or more. Learn more about the superior light control of Musco’s LED solutions at musco.com/total-light-control
“We at Ashton have on three occasions used Musco for installation of floodlights and have been extremely impressed by the professional approach by their installation team. We have had zero comeback on their product and on the odd occasion of one of the lights defaulting they have assisted immediately with replacing. We highly recommend them on their service and the product.” – Joe Erasmus
We Make It Happen®
Managing Director, Ashton International College. Ballito. ©2020 Musco Sports Lighting, LLC · ADSA20-1
f o g e r tin u t u igh ow F e sL N h T rt is o p S
S
ports lighting has been transformed. Sports lighting is going through a revolution according to sports lighting specialists, Maritz Electrical. With HD television driving viewer experience, stadiums need to adapt to cater for highdefinition television cameras. Stronger lux levels are needed with more flexibility to improve spectator experience. On top of this, maintenance and cost savings are elements that stadium facilities managers look at keenly. LED lighting has eased the burden on electrical supply resulting in affordability for stadium managers to install systems that reduce maintenance costs due to their longevity. And when it comes to developing our sporting talent, educational institutions play a huge role. To nurture talent, facilities are needed that go beyond the standard; they need fields to push the boundaries of skills and to drive talent to new heights of achievement placing sports lighting directly in the spotlight. Field lighting has to go beyond player and spectator expectations. Maritz Electrical has achieved industry-first installations in South Africa at St. George's
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Park Cricket Ground, Coetzenburg Athletics Stadium, Athlone Football Stadium, Western Province Cricket Club hockey field and currently sports fields at Sol Plaatje University in the Northern Cape, all being the first of their kind in South Africa. All of these installations boast the same Musco TLC-LED technology that is used at 19 English Premier League stadiums including Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as Twickenham Rugby Stadium, Wembley Stadium and numerous Grand Prix circuits. Maritz Electrical’s Chief Executive Officer, Franco Botha, says advanced LED lighting systems now bring superior quality, flexibility and reliability to sports fields, which now boast world-class lighting, not to mention the quality it brings to our sports stars, so we feel this is a new industry standard and one developers and architects should be considering. Key considerations and benefits for LED lighting at sports fields include:
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Vastly improved LUX levels.
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It's compliant with high definition television cameras, offering sports field international competitiveness.
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Flexibility – lights can be interactive, an advantage in the case of T20 Cricket.
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Easily dimmable to various intensities, allowing for reduced LUX levels for smaller events, after match presentations and practices, reducing the energy requirements during these times.
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Reduced maintenance due to the longer life offered by LED lights. Significantly reduced energy demands, resulting in reduced cost of operation.
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Reduced light spillage reducing inconvenience to neighbouring buildings and residential homes.
"With the country’s reliance on an energy supplier that is inconsistent in its delivery, the future of lighting lies in a reduction on the reliance on energy. Reducing the burden on our energy supplier will play a vital role in consistent energy supply."
F E AT U R E
Lighting brings excitement and maximum spectator experience to stadiums According to Maritz Electrical, there is an increased demand in flexibility of lighting as stadiums realise the importance of offering extended event services other than the stadium’s primary service offering. Being able to have interactive lighting allows for greater spectator experience and increased excitement during sporting events. This is particularly true for fast action sports like T20 cricket matches. With the ability to flash various light fixtures to signal a four or six hit by the batsmen, spectators are drawn into the excitement on the field and their experience of the event is significantly enhanced, and unforgettable. The international standard now across South Africa Botha confirms that with international standard lighting now being rolled out at many schools, universities, stadiums and local and national roads, South Africa is well on its way to rival countries as a preferred venue for international sporting events and education. Aside from the internationally renowned stadiums offering televised sporting events, many schools and clubs are attracting companies such as SuperSport to televise various matches. Schools and clubs with LED lighting, with the required LUX levels to cater for high definition cameras, give them a competitive advantage, and become an attractive option for televised sporting events. A perfect example, says Botha, is Coetzenburg Athletics Stadium. Already a preferred track in Stellenbosch for international athletes to use as an off-season training ground, this stadium can now offer the best of both worlds. A training facility for practice and a venue for international track meets. Coetzenburg is also a favourite for local school meets and allows for night events to be televised, a significant advantage for talent rising from school level. With St. George's Park cricket ground leading the way in terms of being the first cricket ground with interactive lighting, many stadiums followed soon after. Athlone Stadium recently installed a new system and now offers a venue for international televised matches with its new interactive LED lighting installation. Sol Plaatje University offers students worldclass facilities that will serve to nurture sporting talent and embrace international trends.
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What’s next? Botha says that the future of sports field lighting is already with us. The move to LED installations not only makes economic sense, it allows for stadiums to be far more flexible in their service offering. With the addition of an interactive element, spectators will be drawn to events to enjoy the excitement and thrill that this interactivity brings. The lights allow for a dramatic element to play out before and after matches and in the case of T20 cricket, even during. Stadiums can once again look forward to full stadiums given the value they will now be able to offer spectators and high definition television broadcasters. The introduction of these lighting systems at schools, clubs and universities offers our young talent a view into international sports, giving them experience playing under lights that their international sporting heroes use and this will drive their motivation to achieve success at a higher level. For information contact Maritz Electrical on 021 703 0867, email info@jtm.co.za or visit www.maritzelectrical.co.za Since 1976, Musco Lighting has specialised in the design and manufacture of sports lighting solutions around the world. They’ve pioneered systems using metal halide and LED technologies that can be seen in Martiz Electrial’s stunning projects.
MARITZ
ELECTRICAL an empowerment company
FRANCO BOTHA CEO, Maritz Electrical
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Leader in Natural & Synthetic Turf Technology
ARTIFICIAL TURF ATHLETICS TRACKS
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ARTIFICIAL TURF HOCKEY PITCHES Telephone No: 087 087 4168 Email Address: Phillip@turftech.co.za Turftech (Pty) Ltd is a specialist in the construction, development and maintenance of sport facilities including fields that have natural and artificial turf such as football and hockey fields, hard courts for tennis, basketball and netball, we also do athletic tracks.
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The Steyn City Stunner Golf Data is synonymous with construction and maintenance in South Africa for all sports and recreational facilities, so, our team at Pro Landscaper + Architect thought it a great idea to get in touch for some pro tips on turf construction.
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PROJECT
Steyn City School is located north of Fourways, Johannesburg, and is a recently completed project from Golf Data’s in-house landscape architecture division. This project won the team a SALI Trophy of Excellence for Turf Construction in 2021 and so we were keen to get the inside scoop. The landscape architecture division recently assisted the client in developing and designing junior soccer fields and recommended that the construction of the fields be done in accordance with internationally recognised sports field specifications. This determined the layer works, drainage depth, compaction density and slope utilised to construct the fields. Close collaboration and coordination was required on site given the location and delayed access due to other contractors requiring thoroughfare of the area. The earthworks The earthworks component of this project was an extensive process, consisting firstly of the removal of the on-site topsoil and storage for reinstallation at a later phase. A cut and fill exercise was required to create the platforms for the fields, followed by compaction of the platform to allow for layer works as per specifications. Once the platforms were created, an as built survey was undertaken to confirm that the levels were in tolerance. The drainage system was of significant importance for the success of this project due to the significant run-off captured by the field given it’s size and surrounding slopes and infrastructure. Stormwater management Golf Data then designed a hybrid system to deal with the increased stormwater. A herringbone system of 110mm PVC perforated pipes was used to drain the field to the sides. This was placed under a drainage layer (13mm washed gravel) and a geotextile layer above that to prevent contamination by the topsoil. A ring of a 450mm diameter concrete pipe was built to capture the water from the herringbone system, but Golf Data additionally converted the concrete pipes into a perforated system by mechanically grinding slots into the pipes so that they could capture run-off from the surrounding slopes. Topsoil and sodding A layer of unsifted topsoil was installed, topped by a layer of sifted topsoil (which had been stored on-site from the initial earthworks) before laser-levelling took place. Kikuyu sod was selected for the sport fields given that it
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PROJECT
SUPPLIERS: Irrigation design Controlled Irrigation Product - Rain Bird Geotextiles and pipe Fibertex Topsoil sieve Superior Sands Grass Evergreen Turf
GOLF DATA golfdata.co.za @GolfDataSA @GolfDataSA
is a low maintenance grass that handles high traffic well, and creates a good playing surface once established. Maintenance A maintenance model for the turf and sports fields has been carefully coordinated and undertaken by Golf Data to ensure a healthy playing surface is upkept at all times. Automated irrigation systems, the use of Toro reel mowers, frequent fertilising and monthly aero-vating to treat soil compaction are core elements to the ongoing maintenance of the facility. Recycled water supplied by the Steyn City Estate is utilised, with the watering of the fields
being carefully monitored in accordance to seasonal requirements. The stormwater run-off from the larger estate assists in filling irrigation dams on site, to be treated and utilised for the irrigation of the fields. The Steyn City School sports field construction demonstrates a case where a world class facility has been created. The highly skilled team sought to develop innovative solutions to reduce costs while maintaining quality, in this case through the use of on-site harvested topsoil. This, coupled with the groups bulk-buying capacity and expertise in landscaping construction saw the development of a facility that will be enjoyed for years to come.
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F E AT U R E
P
ro Landscaper + Architect was excited to sit down with Fanus Cloete, Director of renowned turf brand, Evergreen Turf, to hear all about how the grass really is greener on their side of the fence! What led you into the business of turf? I studied a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Pretoria, and did my Honours degree in 1984. Thereafter, I did my National Service in the South African Defence Force for two years. My brother and I then started buying lawn from growers and did installation work. Tell us a little about your journey to becoming the biggest supplier of instant lawn in SA? My plan was never to become the biggest grower in the country, but with good product and service, which is what drives us, we grew over the years organically and quickly became the go-to supplier for the industry. Is Evergreen Turf a family-run business, and what would you say makes your team unique? Yes, we are a family-owned business, my son Stefan joined us two years ago after his studeis at the University of Free State. We have an excellent team of highly skilled personnel, with everybody dedicated to giving the best product and service. This helps us all have a common goal and contributes to why we are a success. What size is your farm, how many members of staff do you employ and what are some breeds of grass we can find on-site? We currently grow 620 hectares of grass on 7 different locations, so there is a lot of grass! We have a sales outlet in Bon Accord, Pretoria, and our Head Office is based in Eikenhof, south of Johannesburg. We grow 7 varieties of grass, some warm season grasses, some cool season grass, some indigenous and some shade-tolerant. And, how far from your outlets can you supply? The majority of our turf is sold in Gauteng and the surrounding provinces, but we do deliver on request countrywide, and we also export to neighbouring countries. We only grow the top selected varieties and breeds over years, and therefore we can supply to a whole spectrum of customers. Do you consult with landscape professionals and architects about the best turf for specific spaces? Oh yes, a lot of architects will sometimes contact us about what the best type of turf would be for an application. No one knows turf like we do! We
live and breath it every day.
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What are some iconic projects you’ve been involved in over the years, and what made these projects unique? •
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The resurfacing of Lost City Golf Course stands out for us. The construction of 2010 pitches like Ellis Park, Soccer City and Moses Mabida Stadium were also big milestones.
Hundreds of landscapers are supplied to on a daily basis, as well as developers and golf courses by the dozen and a lot of these are award-winning projects so we’re very lucky to have our grass used in so many different places. When is the next Evergreen Turf trade day and what can we expect to see this year? We hope that the COVID-19 restrictions will be eased so that we can carry on with the show to teach the industry about all the advantages of natural turf. Definitely a lot of the latest machines will be on demonstration to show our customers why we keep on investing in world class technology and turf varieties to ensure
they have the best product for their particular requirements.
When you’re not busy on-site, where can we find you?
What has influenced you over the years, both personally and professionally?
I am almost daily on the farms, but if I get a little spare time I love boating on the Vaal River, or spending time with family and friends around a bush fire.
We started our business up with very little capital, and had to work hard to make it successful. We are proud members of Turf Producers International, an organisation dedicated to turf production over the world. We regularly go to their educational sessions and conferences to make sure we can deliver world class product, to stay ahead with the best technology, and to do research on the best varieties suitable for our climate. We are proud to be a world class lawn production company. A quote you live by? My dad always said:
“It’s the master’s eye that fattens the ox.” To be hands-on in our business is what we do and expect from all staff.
Are there any future developments you’d like us to know about? We are in the process of automating all of our harvesting equipment, which needed a huge capital investment, ensuring that our customers are getting an even better product! Evergreen Turf will assure that customers are supplied with world class instant lawn to all their products. Watch this space!
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Back to the Futura
F E AT U R E
A
n interview with the man behind the contemporary design studio, Futura, Gustav Greffrath, talks collaborations and creativity with Pro Landscaper + Architect. We hear all about these art works as seen around some of SA’s top sports fields and community basketball courts. When and why was Futura founded, and how has it expanded since then? Our studio opened doors in 2016. From the start, Futura has always been about the power of design to change the things around us for the better. We believe in the transformative power of good design. Good design, to us, is about creating a better future for all of us, our studio, our clients, our country and our continent. So, we design to make people happy. To serve people, and to make things better. If that’s the graphic language of a building or an AR filter on Instagram; if the positive impact on the user is considered, then good design played a role. This core belief has allowed us to work on a wide variety of design led projects in many mediums across the world, and it has allowed us to work with some of the most talented people on the continent. How would you describe your aesthetic as a design and communications firm? How does this align with your core values? Our aesthetic is always driven by the intended impact on the user. So, it is functional at its core but inspirational and bold. We are weary of design trends, so we are always trying to create timeless solutions that remains contemporary. To this end, typography, the purest form of visual design, is at the core of our work. What have been some of your proudest projects over the years? In 2019, we worked with a global non-profit to raise awareness of the oil spills in a remote part of Nigeria. ‘Rise for Bayelsa’ was a collection of online assets that exposed the oil companies and highlighted to plight of the people of the region. In January 2021, Shell was ruled responsible and ordered to pay damages to the communities and install leak detection equipment. In the previous year, we had the opportunity to showcase South African talent to investors at the Guggenheim in New York.
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F E AT U R E
We created a multimedia performance by five South African artists. The highlight was a projection map that ran up the parapets of the Guggenheim. It was a digital version of Igshaan Adams’ artwork “oorskot”. As it moved up the space, three jazz artists did an abstract rendition of the South African national anthem. Then of course the redesign of the Nike football Centre in Soweto, to become what is now “Shapa Soweto”. A space that serves the local community through the inspirational power of sport. From the naming thereof, to the graphic language and the artists collaboration, we had the honour of being involved in this truly magical project that has the power to change lives. What was the inspiration and intention behind the design of the Nike Training Centre’s multipurpose sports courts? The multifunctional court was one of the many opportunities for us to inspire the local community through sport at Shapa Soweto. We worked with a talented local mural artist to depict typical “barber shop portraits” of different members of the community. These ‘everyday’ characters became the superstars and their role in the centre’s purpose, immortalised through these portraits. Which key aspects were considered in the surface design of this space? Throughout Shapa Soweto, the function of sport drove all the design decisions. We were lucky to then be able to add an inspirational storytelling layer to that. Be it painted, printed or sculpted.
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Who did you collab with to create this inspirational space? With Tessa Wagener being the project lead designer and Bianca Vermaak, project lead and artist liason for Futura at Shapa Soweto, we worked with: Illustrators: Seth Pimentel, Lorenzo Plaatjies, Daniel Clarke and PR$DNT HONEY Artist and comic book illustrator: Loyiso Mkize Beaders: The Herd Fabric Designers: Wanderland Collective Muralist: Marc Sign in collaboration with Wanda Lephoto. Bold motifs and imagery in your projects are often interactive and emotive, not a mere image. How important is symbolism for you? Symbolism allows us to tell rich and often complex stories in simple and beautiful ways. So, it is key in our process. To us symbolism is a means to encode what we want to say in a format that is appropriate for the user. Something really interesting happens when a story is shared on an unexpected format or medium. The medium becomes part of the story and part of the symbolism. It doesn’t just convey it, but is the story – as seen on a basketball court, a design studio floor, or a running track.
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F E AT U R E
What was actually used to create the imagery on Shapa Soweto? We design the surfaces and creatively manage the applications and process. The physical application sits with our specialists. I can say that every application is different, based on the surface we design for. For Shapa Soweto, it was concrete, tartan, sandstone and artificial turf. Each with its own application standards. How long was the design phase compared to the implementation phase? Shapa Soweto, as a whole, took 3 years to design. Some projects take a day. What’s next for Futura? Who are some brands/collaborators you would love to work with and why? We want to share more interesting stories in new ways with more people using design. As far as collaborations go, we have always wanted to work with a sports team, and we still want to design a restaurant at some point, but ultimately more design that changes things for the better.
"For Shapa Soweto, it was concrete, tartan, sandstone and artificial turf. Each with its own application standards.
GUSTAV GREFFRATH Creative Director at Futura www.futura.co.za @futurajoburg
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WATER FEATURES FOR INNOVATIVE PLAY
Image by: Claire Gunn
Design | Landscaping | Maintenance Water Features | Hard Landscaping | Irrigation +27 14 576 1925 | info@greenacreslandscapes.co.za | www.greenacreslandscapes.co.za
Image by: Louis Van Zyl & Monograph
GAME. SET. MATCH.
PROJECT
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hroughout the year, most of us dream about the perfect holiday spot – where you can escape from your daily chores, unwind and have fun with the kids all day long. But why play once a year when you can do so all year round? That same question popped up around the dinner table one evening for this Pretoria family of four when the vacant stand next door to their home came up for sale. Being a sporty family, dreams of expanding their garden with a tennis court and full-length lap pool immediately came to mind. As architects, we never expected a commission to design a tennis court. This was sorted years ago and was presumed a standard, but the challenge of incorporating this with an existing sub-urban house inside a very prescriptive residential estate, which required a minimum 250m² development, provided the opportunity, – in fact required it – to explore design and construction outside the conventional 'rules' and boundaries of family homes and set the tone for the 'fun and games' theme. The scale of the court allowed only one position on the stand and the design input was therefore focussed on how to incorporate this space with the existing while ensuring that it improves the property as a whole, as opposed to being an isolated and anonymous 'cage' in the front garden. By cutting into the natural ground line, a level plain was created that allowed the existing garden to terrace down into the space, creating an amphitheatre and connecting effortlessly to the existing levels. More importantly, this resulted in the retaining wall structure, which in turn allowed the omission of the conventional court fencing, essentially liberating the whole space. The overhead lights are specifically designed to 'bend' over the court to allow championship level lighting while being more than a meter lower than standard fittings and limiting potential light pollution. At night these masts shape the court into a spectacular arena. In addition to the court, a clubhouse structure was constructed with a reference to Wimbledon, where the tennis court becomes ‘Centre Court’, complete with a VIP viewing box for the fans, locker rooms, juice bar and complementary functions. The unassuming concrete and steel structure makes way for full height glazing that slide and stack away completely, allowing inside and outside to interconnect seamlessly.
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MEET THE TEAM: Architectural team: W design architecture studio wdas.co.za @wdesign_architecture_studio
Contractor: CPM Construction Engineer: Hugo and Partners Images: DOOK
PROJECT
The black steel finishes for the built-in furniture reinforces the overall industrial barn style architecture, whilst the graffiti wall feature pays a tongue-in-cheek homage to the tagging found at public play yards. While the clubhouse allows the family a separate space to entertain and play with friends, the building was planned to allow for change and adapt and grow with their changing needs. When the children are ready to move out of the nest, and this building needs to become a more serious or responsible space, it can easily be converted into a small home or even develop into a bigger one.
SUPPLIERS: Aluminium Pronk Aluminium – 083 390 7957 Landscape design Over The Garden Wall Outdoor Benches: W design – Purpose Made Cork Wiid Design – 072 494 5914 Wooden lockers Raw Studios Lights Spazio Lighting – 011 555 5555 Tennis court light fittings BEKA Schréder Tennis court Barrett's Tennis Courts – 074 953 0130 Climbing wall fittings Wonderwall Indoor Climbing – 083 501 8565
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a m e r Ro D e om h T
Asher Marcus, head architect of Hubo Studio, and his imaginative design team were tasked with the creation of a space that serves as an enjoyable escape for children who are fighting a battle against cancer. At the launch of the first Dream Room in the Northern Cape, on 15 September 2021, regional manager of the Reach for a Dream Foundation Kerry Donkin emphasised that the focus of the space was on the power of dreams; dreams that bring hope and a vision for the future.
PROJECT
Location: Robert Sobukwe Hospital, Kimberley Size: 178 m²
T
he Dream Room at the paediatric oncology unit of the Robert Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley is the first to be created in the Northern Cape, with sixteen additional spaces already furnished in various hospitals across other provinces. In the pipeline, another five are being planned. The transformation of a storeroom into the intended imaginative emporium had a few obstacles, one being that it had to be created during the pandemic. However, restrictions did not stop the studio and head architect, Asher Marcus, from creating a dream space. “The magic is in the detail. We envisaged a comfortable and fun forest scene, and we succeeded,” says Magriet Steynberg, architect of Hubo Studio. “Thanks to the Dream Rooms, children who have to spend a long time in a hospital are now becoming excited to come for treatment, with the rooms brightening up their days and keeping them busy in a fun environment,” says Kelly Donkin. “They can escape, learn and dream in this magical space. This is a safe space with hope, and it has been proven that hope changes the way people react to chemotherapy." The foundation may not be able to change the statistics on life-threatening illnesses for kids, but with these bright and inspiring spaces can bring the power of a dream to them.
SUPPLIERS: Glass: Skyworks Construction - 053 842 0003 Flooring: Polyflor - 011 609 3500 Paint: Plascon - 0860 20 40 60 Lighting: Streamlight - 011 440 4142
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PROJECT
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PROJECT
“The Dream Room in Kimberley could only be established after a lot of dreaming and imagining by the adults involved”, says paediatric oncologist, Dr Liezl du Plessis, as a tiny store room was refurbished. Dr. Du Plessis says the Dream Room is not only beneficial for the children who come to the unit for treatment, but also for staff members and the children’s family. “Adults also want to continue to dream bigger,” she says, as she emphasises the importance of the involvement of non-profit organisations such as Reach for a Dream, as well as private businesses such as Truworths as the sponsor, in projects like these in the state sector. Carlos Camara, regional manager of Truworths, says the company partnered with Reach for a Dream in 2016 and is proud of yet another Dream Room, aptly launched during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, being completed. The forest theme welcomes patients and visitors in the corridor, inviting them into the Dream Room and into adjacent rooms and the bathroom, with the same theme. “This unit and these life-threatening illnesses were here long before COVID-19, and will be with us long after,” she says, and mentions that Reach for a Dream is already envisaging integrating virtual reality and theme events into the existing Dream Room.
www.hubostudio.com @hubostudio
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HYGIENE MADE FUN WITH THE
GEBERIT BAMBINI
TAPS Child-friendly taps with touchless IR sensor or manual actuation
WC SEAT WC seats for every age
WC Child-friendly WC designs and ceramic appliances with child-friendly heights
WASHBASINS Geberit Bambini washbasins at a child-friendly height and with child-oriented equipment
CHILD-FRIENDLY SANITARY ROOMS. Children discover the world through play. That is why it is good when childcare centres, schools and other establishments feature sanitary rooms with equipment that fosters their curiosity and learning. The Geberit Bambini series of child-friendly bathroom fittings support and simplify the development of hygienic practices in a playful way. www.geberit.co.za
F E AT U R E
GEBERIT BAMBINI – MOTHERLY LOVE HYGIENE MADE FUN WITH THE GEBERIT BAMBINI Brighten up the children’s day with the Bambini Collection. Did you know children have particular requirements for bathrooms? Especially when it comes to places like day cares, schools, and other related institutions. To support and simplify the development of hygienic practices in a playful way, Geberit and the Bambini series, have the perfect solution to fit all child-friendly requirements. Here is more about the Swiss designed Bambini series: Bambini brings a splash of bright and cheerful colour and creative design to the bathroom. The water saving dual flush plates complete this unique collection of child-friendly washroom and
toilet solutions, coordinating beautifully with the specialist washbasins and toilet seats. The Bambini range comes in a variety of sizes, with every piece ergonomically designed to suit varying age groups. Take the washstands as an example: The childfriendly design appeals to children’s playful nature but also rely on a practical concept. It’s positioned so that small children can easily reach it. The wash places can accommodate three to four children and can be staggered in size so that children of different heights can find a basin that is the right height for them. Indeed, what makes them fun to use is the fact that water can be made to cascade from a higher basin level to a lower one. A removable damming plate offers additional playing options while helping to prevent flooding. The Bambini tap is loved by many for its cartoonlike bird’s head with a peaked baseball cap. To use it, the baseball cap just needs to be pressed down. The use of the three primary colors named red, yellow and blue were specifically chosen to help small children to distinguish easily, which then also helps them function the taps correctly. With the Geberit Bambini, sanitary rooms in pre-schools and schools are sure to become an area children not only enjoy using but that also familiarizes them with the topic of hygiene in a fun and memorable way.
GEBERIT BAMBINI FEATURES
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Child-friendly development of hygienic practices in a playful way
• • •
Suitable for children of different ages
• •
WC seats for every age
Can be adapted to the spatial circumstances The soft washbasin contours protect against injuries Various surfaces and WC lids
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The Wonderdal Wonderland
prolandscaper.co.za
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PROJECT
Location: Hazendal, Stellenbosch Size: 550m2
W
onderdal was the brainchild of Simone Voleshin and Shlomi Azar of the farm Hazendal in Stellenbosch. Almost five years ago the refurbishment of the farm started and the broad outline of what is Wonderdal today was sketched out. Formula D_ interactive was appointed to design both the learning content, modes of interaction and together with TeamArchitects developed the spatial narrative and fitout design. ‘Wonderdal’ set out to be a world class edutainment centre for kids aged 5 to 13, with a combination use of physical play learn as well as digital interactive and immersive play spaces. A central theme around five fictional characters and their wonderful world bound all the play learning spaces and educational categories. Close attention was given to the development of the learning content to align with current local and international school curriculars. It was important that both parents and learners experience a flawless transition from arrival to ticketing to the induction area. A generous and colourful foyer space welcomes the learners and parents with benches under a roof and ticketing counters that mimic the flow of the ‘river’ that runs through the internal play space. It also binds these spaces without threshold to the ‘shoe off’ area. The waiting area is also the de facto safe and controllable pick-up area where kids and parents are united after the play session. Security and control of children were of the utmost importance in designing this space. The user journey is of paramount importance in the development of the spatial narrative. A fully immersive orientation space allows for the kids to be introduced to the world of the ‘Amuki’ and Wonderdal. This space was designed to be acoustically neutral so not to disturb the sound scape of the main space, before opening its doors and welcoming the kids to Wonderdal. Standing tall in the centre of the space is the magical tree, the biggest element that binds and focusses the entire experience of Wonderdal. A tree element that allows for children to experience the space through this climbing structure, but also as an interactive game.
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MEET THE TEAM: Client: Hazendal WIne Farm Interior architects: TeamArchitects Interactive experience design consultants: Formula D_ interactive
PROJECT
The design, construction and coordination of this structure was surprisingly more complex than one would imagine. The staging and fixing were rather complex given the complex geometries thereof. It is then fitted with and upholstered interior and netting to place one in the 3D space. The tree also serves as the central point for the forest canopies that extend into the corners of the building on different levels. The canopy acts as a diffuser for both light and sound, but also helps generate the dappled light as if one is in a magical forest. The lighting design consists of 3-5 layers of lighting depending on the zone of interaction, from statutory all the way to focussed task lighting and multiple projectors for digital projected games. ‘Story caves’ was designed to engage learners with reading in a sunken reading pit with softs scattered around. On the periphery of the reading pit are ‘caves’ of which are themed with a specific look and feel and invite children to engage with content in the form of a radio station. Adjacent to the story caves is ‘snack time’, a game that is focused on health and nutrition through the making of virtual dishes. This happens on a large touch screen module which is accessible from all sides.
Games tables are scattered around this area with various puzzles for all ages. The area is covered with a massive acoustic diffuser and suspended lights that helps anchor the space in between the two main staircases. ‘Virtual garden’ gives learners the opportunity to explore ecology and the relationship between all the parts that make a living biome possible. Here it was learned that some paint reflects infrared more than others, and the challenge of neutralising a large spectrum of light and sound in a small space was highlighted. What looks like the simplest of spaces was by far the most challenging. The curvature of the walls is dictated by the projector’s throw distance and resolution together with the overlapping of each projector to ensure a seamless experience of a projected landscape. Formula D_ built full scale mock-ups of the space during beta testing of the software and before decamping all for the final installation. Coordination between fitout design and technical resolution to the millimetre was of the utmost importance. ‘Tinker space’ is where various games and programs regarding science and technology are taught. There is a wind tunnel with a variable fan and a large plexiglass tube where learners can test the aerodynamics of items folded out of paper or other reclaimed materials. A major
determinant in designing these spaces was to allow for flexibility in reprogramming should the operator feel the need, or at least be able to retune some of the learning content. The ‘Amuki’ landscape is extended to the outside spaces in fantastical versions of a forest canopy or climbing structures. This external play area explores the full range of spatial triggers for problem solving through activity and specifically assisting in motor development of younger age groups in a safe environment. It also offers the space for controlled activities for larger groups should there be a need for it. Finally, on the first floor, ‘Wonderdal’ is equipped with three classrooms where learners accompanied by their teachers or Wonderdal staff, engage with educational content specifically designed and aligned with the game content and learning categories. This retrospectively aligns learning experiences with course content for school groups or larger groups. ‘Wonderdal’ is ultimately the expression of a unique vision by the owners of Hazendal and the result of a congruent multidisciplinary design effort.
Photographs courtesy of Wonderdal at Hazendal.
SUPPLIERS: Flooring KBAC – 021 464 4320 Wallpaper, custom-made furniture, signage, ceiling panels, climbing wall Blackwood – 071 608 4061 Lighting PID – 021 7060594 Netting Blaize lighting and décor – 072 345 0968 Fibreglass tree Journeyman – 072 209 2793 Tree and wind tunnel prototyping and design: Protocolab - 021 422 2445
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SHENZHEN SKYPARK PROJECT
Project name: Shenzhen Nanshan Skypark Location: Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China Roof total length: 1.2km Roof width: 50m-70m Design time: May 2016-July 2017 Construction time: March 2018-June 2021 Completion time: July 2021
Crossboundaries’ Skypark revalues a former unused rooftop, converting it into a recreational urban strip in Shenzhen – a fusion of infrastructure, architecture and urban landscape. The park revitalizes a preexisting rooftop, creating a space for sports and leisure, with the Shenzhen skyline as the backdrop. The 1.2km rooftop of a metro terminal and maintenance facility is transformed into a public park that houses a multitude of outdoor programmes that take advantage of the site’s height and beautiful surroundings. As a way to give back to the surrounding neighbourhood, the park connects to buildings on its west side through skybridges, leading in students and sports enthusiasts on a platform made for them – bringing educational institutions together with the local community in a unique combination of sports and recreational offers, tied together with the landscape. A PARK WITH A TWIST The park’s spatial organisation follows decisions made towards three different user groups: the general public, the neighbouring schools and sports professionals. Ultimately, the space is filled with plots of sporting facilities, ranging from basketball courts and five-a-side football pitches to professional level tennis courts with an audience stand. A separate walkway for the general public interweaves through the length of the park, with parts elevated for a better view, people who are simply looking for a casual stroll can enjoy the atmosphere without crossing paths with the high energy activities within. prolandscaper.co.za
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PROJECT
EASE OF ACCESS All entrances and accesses to the rooftop park are located in direct vicinity to different functional areas, whilst preventing unnecessary interference, reachable via six access points in total. Vertical connections make the north and the south end directly accessible from the ground floor, inviting the general public up to the roof. School access happens exclusively via crossovers, leading directly onto the rooftop. They are attached to three secondary public entrances, in the form of elevators and staircases, for additional access from the street level. UNIQUE WAY OF PATHFINDING Once inside the park, a signage system is implemented to help users navigate. The entire length of the area is divided in 100m increments, with signage polls located on each interval, presenting the current location as well as a map and description on where different functions are located. Scattered around the park are also pieces of urban furniture with marking of distance and function to help better pinpoint one’s location. ABOUT CROSSBOUNDARIES Crossboundaries is a multidisciplinary, designcentered practice with projects ranging from urban planning, architecture and interior design all the way to graphic design, programming, teaching and event creation. We practise by name, crossing the boundaries of the design domain, initiating activities and dialogues across different fields. Keeping the company continually thinking and doing, it aims to engage, evolve and adapt. Passionately facilitating for human needs, Crossboundaries' main interest is people. It is dedicated to solve challenges to deliver creative solutions. It innovates products that result from going beyond the requirements of a brief to include the sensitivities of human needs, in the process sharing its knowledge and philosophy. For project inquiries, interviews and other information, please contact Aki Jian email: media@crossboundaries.com
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PROJECT
MEET THE TEAM: Landscape/architecture/interior/signage design: Crossboundaries, Beijing, China Client: Shenzhen Nanshan District Government Investment Project Preliminary Work Office Photography: BAI Yu, Shenzhen Luohan Photography Studio
info@crossboundaries.com www.crossboundaries.com @crossboundaries_beijing
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2022/01/28 16:23
Meet Mfangano Solutions
When was your company established, and out of a need for what? Mfangano Solutions is a company established in 2011 with a vision to provide environmental management solutions to both the public and private sectors. It was formed as an answer to the dynamic and growing need to provide a safer green environment by minimizing on environmental waste through treatment and recycling waste to usable material. What’s your vision for the industry? Our vision is to develop Mfangano Solutions to become the industry leader and preferred solutions provider, while applying excellence in provision of quality services to our client. By capitalising on our experience in environmental management, the specialist team is able to advise, direct and supply their clients with the type of equipment and solutions they will need to get the very best out of their investment. The intention is to move away from conventional sales of equipment towards customized solutions for diverse clients catapulting them to international standards.
What do you supply to the industry?
What brands do you proudly distribute?
Our areas of operations comprise technology and environmental equipment supply, waste management solutions, and professional consultancy services. This is what we supply:
Mfangano Solutions are dedicated distributors of Gravely, Stihl, Husqvarna, Ariens, Morbark, Willibald, CM, Major Equipment, Falcon, Rayco, Rockster Recylcer and TS industrial's wide range of equipment. We continuously engage in research and benchmarking for new solutions in order to keep up to speed with international trends.
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green waste solution; outdoor equipment and backup services, ride-on, push and stand on lawnmowers, waste tire solutions, tire derived fuels, recycling solutions, forestry equipment,
Our Mission is to attain the uppermost principles of performance whilst providing inventive value- added services to our clients, consequently bringing transformation within the industry. Our values are symbols of our top preferences defining how we interact with each other to sustain long term relationships which consequently brings transformation within the industry. Mfangano Solutions brings with it more than 10 years of experience in the field of environmental waste management.
MFANGANO SOLUTIONS 011 440 2072 www.mfangano.co.za
Amaloba Projects is highly rated in the green industry for its quality installations in Landscaping, Irrigation, Paving, Interior Plants and Maintenance with a friendly and qualified team. Growing Health
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deependskateparks@gmail.com | 084 770 9917 @DeepEndSkateparks
F E AT U R E
Experience high performance cordless freedom with the STIHL PRO range It’s an ongoing debate – will cordless power tools deliver when it matters? The answer is, when using the cordless STIHL PRO range – yes, they will! The STIHL Lithium ion PRO range, as the name suggests, consists of professional-grade cordless power tools designed specifically for professional applications. This is significant for a number of reasons. First of all, there is no need for a power source when using these tools – or having the power switched on and functional on site. So, you won’t have to arrange a generator with this range of powerful, high-performance tools. There is naturally the safety aspect as well – no cables to trip up and tangle. Studies reveal that slips and falls are a major issue on job sites, accounting for more than a third of all reported injuries. Secondly, the STIHL PRO range is powerful enough for the more challenging tasks of maintaining larger green spaces, such as sporting and recreational areas. Best of all, the PRO range products have interchangeable Lithium-ion batteries that can be swapped between machines for minimal downtime and greater flexibility. The Lithium-ion technology delivers impressively long run times with no gradual loss of power as the batteries run down. Finally, as with all STIHL cordless products, there is the advantage of being totally mobile for working in any place you need to, as well as these machines being low noise, emission-free, and significantly, there is no fuel to be budgeted for, accounted for, stored, and mixed on-site. What a win! This makes the STIHL PRO range models ideal for use on diverse professional projects. They are compact, lightweight and simple to handle – kinder on operators who may have to use them all day, and easier to store. Cordless power is also better for the environment. The PRO range includes a wide variety of powerful, high performance tools that are used by professionals globally for various landscaping applications – blowers, brushcutters, hedge trimmers, lawnmowers, sweepers, chainsaws
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and telescopic pole pruners (useful for neatening overhanging branches and tidying up from the safety of the ground, and no ladders to worry about either). Almost every product in the PRO range is safe to use in the rain, so there’s no downtime when wet weather arrives. STIHL offers a wide range of accessories to partner with its PRO range, including a choice of Lithium-ion batteries (with charge indicator so you are not caught unaware), backpack batteries, chargers, harnesses, support cushions, battery bags, and more. In addition to offering greener high-performance tools, the STIHL PRO range delivers economy – vital for professional users. Besides there being no fuel costs and reduced downtime, the robust and hard-working brushless motors require minimal servicing. The STIHL PRO range of power tools delivers petrol-grade performance and enhanced productivity, with reduced operating costs and the multiple advantages of greener, more userfriendly professional-style tools. Make STIHL cordless PRO range power tools part of your team today.
2653B PRECISIONCUT™ TRIM AND SURROUNDS MOWER
EVERY FIELD HAS A STORY TRANSFORM YOURS
WITH THE REVOLUTIONARY SPEED LINK SYSTEM, YOU CAN MAKE HEIGHT-OF-CUT ADJUSTMENTS IN NO TIME. • • • • • •
Full-time 3WD hydrostatic system for even traction Excellent contour following High power-to-weight ratio Fixed front roller A durable frame built to handle the toughest terrain Air-restriction indicator
www.deere.africa | africa@johndeere.com | Customer Care: 0800 983 821 | JohnDeereAME
John Deere
John Deere Africa & Middle East
